This story is quite old but I am finding very few who are aware of this development in the U.K. Shock and disbelief are the usual reactions I get when I mention this little-known capitulation in the U.K. to Muslim social structure.

Husbands with multiple wives have been given the go-ahead to claim extra welfare benefits following a year-long Government review.

Even though bigamy is a crime in Britain, the decision by ministers means that polygamous marriages can now be recognised formally by the state, so long as the weddings took place in countries where the arrangement is legal.

The outcome will chiefly benefit Muslim men with more than one wife, as is permitted under Islamic law. Ministers estimate that up to a thousand polygamous partnerships exist in Britain, although they admit there is no exact record.